The King of POP is back…and moonwalking back to where it all began via the April release of Michael.
Starring Jaafar Jackson–Michael Jackson’s nephew–the movie captures Jackson’s rise to stardom through emotional and documentary-style insights. Journeying back to the Jackson 5 era–where it all began in Gary, Indiana, in 1964 with his brothers (Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon)–the movie progresses into Jackson’s “thrilling” solo career of the 80s, and stops short of his death in 2009.
The ambitious film attempts to reintroduce this singer (who many consider to be most iconic artist in pop culture) to a new generation–most of whom had not even been born. Yet, it is surprising the number of teenagers who need no introduction to his work. “I am a fan, even though I don’t really listen to his music that often,” shares Senior Jocelyn Brown. “But,” she continues, “whenever I do, the music is still enjoyable.”
Such hits from the 80’s as “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller” rank among fan favorites. But, billboard blockbusters with his brothers decades earlier featured such Motown singles as “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.”
“I’m the biggest fan!” asserts English teacher Mrs. Lyndsey Mullins, who grew up listening to Jackson’s music. “My favorite song–’This is it’–is my husband’s and my special song for our family. It was released posthumously in 2009, bringing sentimental value.”
In the movie, the music itself is what appeals most to those in the audience. The box office numbers confirm that–with Michael earnings of $97 million domestically and over $217 million globally opening weekend. It also received a 97% viewer rating, which surpassed such music biopics as Bohemian Rhapsody.
“After watching the film with my family,” shares Senior Luna Londondo, “we left with an emotional timeline and nostalgia, showing his attributions of his famous songs, bringing us back to what he is still remembered for.”
Junior Joselyn Warren, too, walked away pleased by the movie. “First of all,” she begins, “I loved the dancing in it! But,” she continues, “what I loved more was the scene where Michael stood up to his father for the abuse he was causing. That was so powerful!” Warren also appreciated the fact that some of the public gossip about Jackson was dispelled. “I’m just glad that they stopped where they did in the movie,” Warren concludes. “It was better to end on a high note.”
However, while audiences also appreciated Warren’s perspective, movie critics were split on how “sanitized” the movie was. Toward the end of his lifetime, Michael Jackson made headline news for a host of personal, rather than musical, reasons. This movie appears to shift the focus back on to his musical career.
“I think MJ is remembered today because people remember how his music impacted them and others in their lives,” confides Brown. “Many people grew up in that same time period as Michael Jackson, and families passing that on to children affects them, too.”
Michael Jackson’s music has certainly left its mark on people’s lives and the music industry itself. Whether the movie will do the same is yet to be determined. Still in theaters locally, audiences can judge for themselves.
If the saying is true that legends never die, then Michael Jackson lives on. In his own words: “Every day, create your history; every path you take, you’re leaving your legacy.”
“Michael was everywhere,” Mullins echoes in agreement. “His music created trends. His superstardom created so many imitations. His legacy lives on in pop culture.”
